A new Italian restaurant coming to Potomac is already generating buzz ahead of its opening, earning a spot on Eater DC’s list of “The Most Exciting D.C. Restaurant Openings to Look Forward to This Spring.”
Maurizio’s, set to open in Spring 2026, will take over the former Renato’s space at 10120 River Road in the Potomac Village Shopping Center. The concept comes from the team behind several well-known restaurants including Cava Mezze, Julii, Melina, and Bouboulina.
The restaurant carries a deeply personal meaning for the group. Maurizio’s is named in honor of Maurizio Luise, the longtime Director of Operations for the Cava Mezze family of restaurants, who passed away unexpectedly in November. Luise played a key role in the growth and day-to-day operations of the group, and the new restaurant is intended to honor his legacy through a space centered on food, hospitality, and community.
Plans for the project date back to September 2024, when the team partnered with Zuckerman Gravely Development to take over the Renato’s location following its closure. From the beginning, the group emphasized its commitment to respecting the longstanding presence Renato’s had in the Potomac community while introducing a new concept.
“As someone from this community, I understand what Renato’s meant to Potomac, and we’re committed to honoring that legacy while continuing to lead in hospitality,” said co-founder Ike Grigoropoulos. Founder and Chief Concept Officer Ted Xenohristos also noted his personal ties to the area, sharing that he grew up delivering pizzas for his uncle’s nearby restaurant, Tally Ho.
Originally expected to open earlier, the project has taken on added significance following Luise’s passing, ultimately shaping both the name and vision for the restaurant.
According to Eater, Maurizio’s menu will feature a range of Italian dishes from Executive Chef Aris Tsekouras, including rosemary focaccia, fritto misto, linguine and clams, chicken Parmesan, and grilled branzino. The restaurant will also include a dedicated Negroni bar with a variety of takes on the classic cocktail.
